Taking part in your first judo competition is an important step for any judoka. It’s both an exciting and stressful time, when you discover the intensity of combat, respect for the rules and stress management. In this guide, you’ll discover how to prepare for your first judo competition.
1. Understand how a judo competition works
Before you register, it’s essential to know how a competition works:
- Age and weight categories: You’ll be classified according to your age and weight. Remember to check your category before the big day.
- Drawing lots for bouts: Opponents are drawn by lot in each category.
- The elimination system: Depending on the type of tournament, you may be eliminated after one or more defeats. Some tournaments offer repechages.
- Obligatory warm-up: Before each bout, a collective or personal warm-up is necessary to avoid injury.
2. Equipping for competition
Having the right equipment is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises:
- Approved judogi: Check whether your tournament requires a specific judogi (FFJDA, IJF…) Each competition, depending on level, may have certain requirements concerning judogis. The standards may be as much the color of the judogi (white
- The right belt: Tightly knotted and the right length.
- Sandals (zori): Mandatory for movement outside the tatami.
- A bottle of water and a towel: To stay hydrated and dry between fights.
Need a judogi? See our selection here → Judogi
3. Training and physical preparation
You need to be in top physical and technical condition before the big day.
- Improve your stamina: Do some cardio (running, jumping rope) to get through several fights.
- Boost your explosive power: Exercises such as burpees and squats are excellent.
- Work on your grip (kumikata): Good control of sleeves and collar is a major asset in combat.
- Train in combat simulation: Ask your coach to organize intense randoris to get you used to the stress.
4. Managing stress in preparation for your first judo competition
Stress can affect your performance if you don’t anticipate it. Here are a few tips to help you manage it:
- Breathe deeply: Before each bout, breathe in and out slowly to relax.
- Visualize your victory: Imagine your holds and your victorious posture.
- Concentrate on your first fight: Don’t think about the final, every fight counts.
- Listen to your coach: His advice is invaluable in fine-tuning your strategy.
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5. D-Day: practical tips for a successful competition
- Arrive early: Allow at least 45 minutes before your weigh-in.
- Warm up properly: Stretching, mobility exercises and movement on tatami.
- Stay hydrated and eat light: choose fruit, energy bars and water.
- Stay focused between fights: Watch your opponents fight to analyze their techniques.
- Don’t be discouraged: whatever the outcome, experience is learning!
Conclusion
Your first judo competition will be a unique and formative experience. Preparing for your competition is just as important physically and mentally, so make sure you’re properly equipped and, above all, have fun on the tatami.
